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Science News for May 11, 2023


Speckle structured illumination endoscopy

A new technique called speckle structured illumination endoscopy (SSIE) achieves super resolution in images acquired during endoscopy with a wide field of view and large depth of field. SSIE outperforms existing high-resolution endoscopic systems, which typically have limited field of view and depth of field.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalOpto-Electronic Advances·DateMay 11, 2023

Clarifying the trends of tropical cyclones over our oceans towards better predicting and coping with their destruction

Recent research reveals significant increases in tropical cyclone frequency in the North Atlantic and North Indian Ocean, while decreases are observed in the western Pacific. The study also shows varying trends in intensity across different ocean basins.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateMay 11, 2023

Bacteria survive on radioactive elements

Research reveals that certain bacteria can replace essential lanthanides with actinides to sustain their metabolism. The findings suggest a possible role for these bacteria in decontaminating areas contaminated with radioactive elements or separating lanthanides and actinides for analytical purposes.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 11, 2023

Like ancient mariners, ancestors of Prochlorococcus microbes rode out to sea on exoskeleton particles

A new study proposes that ancestors of Prochlorococcus microbes used chitin particles as rafts to venture into the open ocean. This enabled them to evolve new abilities and eventually thrive in the nutrient-poor waters, playing a crucial role in absorbing CO2 from the atmosphere.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 11, 2023

Cervical cancer screening doubles when under-screened women are mailed testing kits

Researchers found mailing HPV self-collection tests and offering assistance improved cervical cancer screening nearly two-fold among low-income women. Screening uptake increased to 72% among women who received mailed HPV kits, compared to 37% for those with scheduling assistance alone.

SourceUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 11, 2023

Molecular markers identify cell types in the testes of cat species

A research team at Leibniz-IZW identified molecular markers for testicular cell types in domestic cats and four wild feline species, allowing for the clear identification of Leydig and Sertoli cells, spermatogonia, and advanced germ cell stages. This breakthrough enables the maturation process of male germ cells in vitro.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW)·JournalTheriogenology Wild·TypeCase study·DateMay 11, 2023

USC research identifies biomarker that may predict treatment response to chemoimmunotherapy

Researchers at USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center have identified a biomarker, CX3CR1, that can predict which patients with non-small cell lung cancer will respond well to chemoimmunotherapy. Elevated levels of the biomarker in T-cells after six to nine weeks of treatment indicate long-term benefits from the combination therapy.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalCancer Research Communications·TypeObservational study·DateMay 11, 2023

Innovative 3D drug screening system

A team led by Professor Timo Betz has developed a 3D cell culture chamber to grow muscle and other tissue using high-resolution microscopy. The new system will enable scientists to mimic the mechanical situations that confront various living tissues in serious conditions, reducing animal testing and costs.

New Utah study finds antibiotic stewardship program significantly reduced prescribing rates of antibiotics at urgent care centers in promising initiative to curb antibiotic overuse

A new study led by Intermountain Health and University of Utah Health found that an antibiotic stewardship program significantly reduced prescribing rates of antibiotics at urgent care centers in Utah. The program, implemented for 38 clinics, included education, electronic health record tools, and transparent benchmarking dashboards, r...

SourceIntermountain Healthcare·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 11, 2023

New way to model human brain immune cells

Researchers create a human-brain-like environment to study microglia development and function for the first time in living human-derived tissue. The findings suggest that brain environment influences microglia development and function, particularly in diseases such as autism spectrum disorder and Alzheimer's disease.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell·DateMay 11, 2023

Understanding the speed of brain communication

A study by Mayo Clinic researchers found that brain transmission speeds continue to increase into early adulthood, reaching a plateau around age 30-40. This may help clinicians offer therapies to treat disorders such as anxiety and depression that emerge during late adolescence and early adulthood.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMay 11, 2023

These sounds are out of this world! #ASA184

A software program designed by Timothy G. Leighton predicts the environmental sounds of other planets and how human voices might change in distant worlds. The program uses acoustics and planetary science communities to learn about properties such as chemical composition, atmospheric temperature changes, and roughness of the ground.

Celestial monsters at the origin of globular clusters

A team of astronomers has discovered chemical traces of supermassive stars in globular proto-clusters, born 440 million years after the Big Bang. The study suggests that these 'celestial monsters' enriched the original gas cloud with chemical elements, explaining abundance anomalies in their stars.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·TypeNews article·DateMay 11, 2023

The DGIST increases clinical diagnosis accuracy through the development of rare cell loss minimization technology.

The DGIST team developed a lossless immunocytochemistry technology that facilitates analysis of rare cells in clinical specimens. This technology achieved a high cell preservation rate and reproducibility compared to existing methods, enabling accurate diagnosis of various diseases.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMay 11, 2023

AI helps map the postal workers in cells

A team of researchers used artificial intelligence to create a 3D model of the Commander complex, a bundle of proteins that transport proteins in cells. This has helped understand how mutations cause disease, including Alzheimer's and heart disease.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalCell·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 11, 2023

Ancestral mitoviruses discovered in mycorrhizal fungi

Researchers have identified a new group of mitochondrial viruses confined to arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi Glomeromycotina, which may represent an ancestral lineage of mitoviruses. These large duamitoviruses possess distinct characteristics and are globally distributed in ecological niches occupied by glomeromycotinian fungi.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalmBio·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 11, 2023

Scientists discover semi-metallization and novel photoelectric behavior in lead iodide under high pressure

Researchers at Hefei Institutes of Physical Science found that lead iodide undergoes a transition to a semimetallic state when subjected to pressure, expanding its spectral response range. This discovery presents a new strategy for designing high-performance photodetectors with broadband responses.

How “extracellular chaperones” help remove abnormal proteins

A team of researchers identified the substrates targeted by alpha 2-macroglobulin for degradation. They developed a novel assay to detect its role in lysosomal degradation of extracellular proteins. This finding suggests that an array of extracellular chaperones cooperate to protect against misfolded proteins.

SourceChiba University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 11, 2023

Next-generation statistical simulator gives medical and biological researchers a benchmarking tool capable of closely mimicking single-cell and spatial genomics data

A new computer-modeling system, scDesign3, has been developed to generate realistic synthetic data for analyzing genetic makeup of cells. The system can help researchers evaluate and validate computational methods for tasks such as gene expression analysis and cell trajectory modeling.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 11, 2023

Rensselaer researcher uses artificial intelligence to discover new materials for advanced computing

A Rensselaer researcher has used artificial intelligence to discover novel van der Waals (vdW) magnets with large magnetic moments. These two-dimensional vdW magnets have the potential to advance science and technology in data storage, spintronics, and quantum computing.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalAdvanced Theory and Simulations·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 11, 2023

SAEM publishes new guideline for treatment of acute dizziness and vertigo in the emergency department

The Society for Academic Emergency Medicine has released a new clinical practice guideline for the treatment of acute dizziness and vertigo in emergency departments. The guideline is based on evidence-based recommendations and aims to improve patient care by reducing unnecessary imaging and promoting logical, algorithmic approaches.

SourceSociety for Academic Emergency Medicine·JournalAcademic Emergency Medicine·DateMay 11, 2023

THE LANCET PUB. HEALTH: Mailing at-home HPV sampling kits nearly doubles cervical screening uptake among hard-to-reach populations, US clinical trial suggests

A US-based clinical trial found that mailing high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) sampling kits to low-income, under-screened women increased cervical cancer screening uptake by nearly double. The study used intensive community outreach campaigns and mailed HPV kits with effective help scheduling in-person appointments.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 11, 2023

Global warming puts whales in the Southern Ocean on a diet

Research from Aarhus University reveals that right whales in the Southern Ocean have become thinner over the past 30 years due to declining krill populations. The whales' food source is shrinking as warmer waters reduce phytoplankton growth, leading to less krill and ultimately affecting their ability to fatten up before winter.

SourceAarhus University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateMay 11, 2023

Rooftop solar panels could power one third of US manufacturing sector

A new study reveals that rooftop solar arrays can meet the entire electricity demand of up to 35% of US manufacturers, currently accounting for only 2.2% of the grid mix. The research investigates the feasibility of on-site solar panel installations across different regions and manufacturing sectors in the US.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Infrastructure and Sustainability·DateMay 11, 2023

How love, health, and neighborhood intersect for Black Americans

A new study from the University of Illinois explores how romantic relationships, neighborhood quality, and mental health intersect among Black Americans. The research reveals significant effects of neighborhood quality on mental wellbeing, with a notable interaction between relationship functioning and neighborhood quality for Black men.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Psychopathology and Clinical Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 11, 2023

DGIST research team led by professor Kyungmoo Yea develops antibodies that alleviate “cancer cachexia” in cancer patients

A team of DGIST researchers led by Professor Kyungmoo Yea developed an antibody that effectively alleviates chemotherapy-induced cancer cachexia. The new treatment approach enhances patient response to continuous anti-cancer therapy, improving quality of life and restoring skeletal muscles and fat tissues.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalJournal of Cachexia Sarcopenia and Muscle·DateMay 11, 2023

The DGIST developed a customized patient transparent gold electrode fabrication technology that can be combined with thermotherapy technology based on photothermy, such as endodontic treatment and PCR

The DGIST research team created a selective photothermal layer formation technology and a transparent electrode using fine inkjet printing solution process. This enables the development of biomaterial devices requiring device transparency or sensitivity to temperature changes.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMay 11, 2023

*Free* Ancient DNA reveals population continuity in pre-Hispanic central Mexico

A new study using ancient DNA from northern and central Mexico reveals population continuity despite drastic environmental change, providing new insights into the region's demographic history. The research also identifies two 'ghost' populations contributing to pre-Hispanic populations, revealing a complex demographic landscape.

Astronomers reveal the largest cosmic explosion ever seen

The explosion, known as AT2021lwx, is more than ten times brighter than any known supernova and has lasted for nearly three years, compared to most supernovae which are only visibly bright for a few months. The researchers believe that the explosion is a result of a vast cloud of gas being violently disrupted by a supermassive black hole.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateMay 11, 2023

A potential pathway to improved stroke recovery

A study published in Stroke identified two proteins, R-spondin 3 (RSPO3) and LGR4, that trigger a signaling pathway to reduce inflammation and promote neurite outgrowth in the ischemic brain. This discovery provides new hope for patients with ischemic stroke by targeting RSPO3/LGR4 signaling.

SourceOsaka University·JournalStroke·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 11, 2023

The science of attraction: why do we fall for certain people?

A Boston University-led study discovered that self-essentialist reasoning plays a crucial role in attraction. When individuals assume others share an underlying essence, they're more likely to form connections with them. However, this flawed thinking can restrict who we find attractive, as it's based on superficial similarities.

SourceBoston University·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 11, 2023

Expansion of cell-to-cell communication drives the early development of pancreatic cancer, new research in mice finds

A new study in mice reveals that pancreatic cancer's emergence is fueled by the expansion of cell-to-cell communication. Researchers found that plasticity and inflammation reshape cells' identities and local environments, fostering cancer growth. The study provides insights into the earliest cellular events leading to PDAC and potentia...

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 11, 2023

New lens analysis approach could improve treatments for nearsightedness

Researchers have developed a new instrument to thoroughly characterize the optical properties of specialized eyeglass lenses used to slow myopia progression. The study's findings provide valuable information on how these lenses interact with eye elongation and shed light on their effectiveness in real-world scenarios.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 11, 2023

New research from ESMT Berlin: Workplace machine learning improves accuracy, but increases human’s workload, too

New research from ESMT Berlin suggests that using machine-based predictions can improve overall accuracy of human decisions, but also increase the likelihood of certain errors and the human's cognitive effort. The study highlights the importance of collaboration between humans and machines to maximize complementary strengths.

SourceESMT Berlin·JournalManagement Science·DateMay 11, 2023

HPV self-collection kits increase screening among under-screened, under-served women in North Carolina

A Phase 3 trial found that mailing HPV self-collection kits and scheduling assistance increased cervical cancer screenings among under-screened, underserved women. The study demonstrated the effectiveness of this approach in breaking down access barriers to screening.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 11, 2023

It’s cool to drool: Forsyth’s application of CRISPR-based rapid detection technology has potential to transform oral health

Scientists from Forsyth Institute develop CRISPR-based diagnostic tool that can detect specific oral pathogens with high sensitivity and specificity. The test can be performed in a dental office without technical expertise, providing comprehensive information on oral health and systemic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.

SourceForsyth Institute·JournalJournal of Oral Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 11, 2023

Study shows hospital policy allowing nurses to initiate C. difficile testing could reduce infection spread and associated morbidity

A new study suggests that allowing bedside nurses to independently order C. difficile testing can significantly reduce the time to receive test results, potentially decreasing clinical and economic burdens of CDI infections. The policy change also showed a decrease in patient infections and hospital economic costs.

SourceAssociation for Professionals in Infection Control·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·TypeCase study·DateMay 11, 2023

Getting active, while living with a partial spinal cord injury

A mobile app called SCI Step Together encourages people with partial spinal cord injuries to get active by setting goals, tracking activities, and connecting with others. The study found that participants who used the app had greater fulfillment of basic psychological needs, including independence, competence, and belonging.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalJournal of Sport and Exercise Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 11, 2023

Heavy drinking poses even greater risk for one in three Americans

A new study from Keck Medicine of USC reveals that heavy alcohol use may be more damaging to the liver for people with metabolic syndrome, more than doubling the risk of advanced liver disease. This condition, characterized by symptoms such as abdominal fat, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol, affects over one in three Americans.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 11, 2023

Our thoughts alter our tactile perception

Researchers found that imagining an index finger as five times smaller improves tactile discrimination threshold, while imagining it larger worsens it. This suggests top-down influence of beliefs on perception, supporting the idea that cognitive content can shape sensory experience.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 11, 2023

When it comes to satellite data, sometimes more is more

Researchers at Stevens Institute of Technology created a digital platform to enable organizations to share satellite data, accelerating earth science research. The New Observing Strategies Testbed (NOS-T) facilitates complex missions like wildfire spotting and landslides prediction without revealing private information.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·JournalSystems Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 11, 2023